Central Otago

Central Otago

Vintners in Otago, the world's most southerly wine region, have to reckon with the country's only continental (rather than maritime) climate. They maximize sunshine hours and minimize frost danger by planting on hillside vineyards, a rarity in New Zealand. Because of their peripheral location geographically, Otago vineyards produce small yields, but their wines can offer great concentration and corresponding character, particularly in Pinot Noir and Gew'rztraminer, which show plenty of crispness. New vineyards are being planted here faster than anywhere else in New Zealand, and for good reason: both Canterbury and Otago grapes produce elegant, long-lived Pinot Noir, typically with deep black cherry flavors and fine acidity.